By Oahu Volunteer Coordinator and Advisory Board Member Temple Liebmann

Our Ocean Defenders Alliance (ODA) Oahu dive team returned to the protected waters of Hanauma Bay for a dedicated marine-debris removal operation on September 27, 2025. Conditions on the water were mixed—beautiful visibility but complicated by intermittent rip currents and the unmistakable presence of drifting jellyfish, requiring divers to stay alert and work methodically.

Orientation and safety planning!

Despite the challenges, our experienced crew was ready. Dive Leader Gary Liebmann led a strong team of volunteers: Ed SisIno, Ray Goody, Chad Schmidt, Eduardo Abreu, Kai Ritter (UW photographer), Bill Metzler, and Dan Okamura, with myself, Temple Liebmann, providing topside support and coordination.

Tackling the Debris

Much of the debris was located near the far end of the bay where it opens out to the ocean, an area where strong water flow often funnels lost fishing gear into the reef. Right from the descent, it was clear this zone was holding a significant amount of discarded fishing line. The divers spread out along the reef contours, relying on line cutters and shears to carefully free monofilament from coral heads without causing damage. This was delicate, slow work—each cut had to be precise, and each section of line had to be lifted away without breaking fragile coral branches.

Over the course of the operation, the team removed fishing line, much of it deeply embedded and entangled around living coral. Divers also discovered a substantial section of derelict fishing net—approximately 60 square feet—lodged on the reef. Working together, the team gradually rolled, folded, and extracted it, surfacing with a water-logged bundle.

A handful of lead fishing weights were also collected, each one representing a hazard both to wildlife and to the bay’s delicate ecosystem.

Challenging but Rewarding Conditions

The rip currents required divers to maintain close buddy contact, anchor themselves carefully while cutting, and use deliberate finning to hold position. Occasional jellyfish made the work even more interesting—forcing a few strategic detours and slow, cautious maneuvering. Despite these factors, the team maintained excellent situational awareness and communication throughout the dive.

Protecting a World-Renowned Marine Sanctuary

Hanauma Bay is one of Hawai‘i’s most iconic marine sanctuaries, and every piece of fishing gear removed prevents injuries to turtles, fish, eels, coral, and countless other species. The debris collected during this dive will be processed and weighed as part of ODA’s ongoing documentation under our special removal permit.

This cleanup is another strong example of what dedicated volunteers can accomplish when we combine skill, teamwork, and a deep love for Hawai‘i’s ocean. Mahalo to every diver who showed up, gave their time, and navigated challenging conditions to protect this precious place.